THOUGHTS ON SHELTERED EMPLOYMENT

SHELTERED EMPLOYMENT

SHELTERED EMPLOYMENT is a provision of productive work for PWDs through workshops providing special facilities, income producing projects or homework schemes. 

From the video we watched from our EDSP 101 class about sheltered employment, I believe that this source of employment is beneficial and fosters learning, productivity, and self-esteem for people with disabilities and special needs. Though mostly vocational, sheltered employment gives PWDs the right to be provided work that accommodates their disability. 

In the US, people with special needs who are to enter sheltered employment, are being trained and educated by certain institutions dedicated in harnessing the talents and abilities of people with special needs. Like from the video we saw in class, a certain institution started a Shoebox project as a tool in educating them with the routines and process needed for sheltered employment.

In the Philippines, as stated in Section 6 of the RA 7277 or the Magna Carta for Persons with Disabilities:

If suitable employment for disabled persons cannot be found through open employment as provided in the immediately preceding Section (Section 5: Equal Opportunity for Employment), the State shall endeavor to provide it by means of sheltered employment. In the placement of disabled persons in sheltered employment, it shall accord due regard to the individual qualities, vocational goals and inclinations to ensure a good working atmosphere and efficient production.

 

As stated here, the State is responsible for providing such centers if some PWDs experience a lack of opportunities and suitable employment. The end goal is to enable them to work in integrated work spaces.

Like in the US, the Philippines also provides training in order to develop skills for employment. In Section 9 of RA 7277 it is stated that:

The State shall also take measures to ensure the provisions of vocational rehabilitation and livelihood services for disabled persons in the rural areas. In addition, it shall promote cooperation and coordination between the government and non-government organization and other private entities engaged in vocational rehabilitation activities.

 The Department of Social Welfare and Development shall design and implement training programs that will provide disabled persons with vocational skills to enable them to engage in livelihood activities or obtain gainful employment. 

The Department of Labor and Employment shall likewise design and conduct training programs geared towards providing disabled persons with skills for livelihood.

These provisions provided by the State gives equal opportunities and privileges to people with disabilities. Furthermore, it shapes a society that acknowledges the abilities and contributions of people with disabilities to our country.

References: 

http://www.autismsocietyphilippines.org/2010/09/pwd-employment-rights-and-privileges.html

https://www.kalibrr.com/advice/2015/09/rights-every-working-pwd-should-know-about/